Taylor Fritz and Elena Rybakina once again proved to be a formidable partnership as they defended their Eisenhower Cup title at Indian Wells, prevailing in the high-energy mixed doubles exhibition held ahead of the BNP Paribas Open.
The pair produced another strong performance in the Tie Break Tens format, where matches are decided by a first-to-10-point tie-break. Their victory secured a second consecutive Eisenhower Cup title and a prize of $200,000.
Rybakina said the win was a positive boost ahead of the main tournament.
“I’m super happy. Hopefully I can do the same thing in singles,” she said.
Fritz also praised their partnership, highlighting how well their playing styles complement each other.
“She serves great and it makes my life really easy,” he said.
The Eisenhower Cup featured 16 players forming eight mixed doubles teams and delivered an entertaining night of tennis on Stadium 2. The quick-fire format kept matches intense, with every point carrying significant weight.
Among the fan-favorite pairings were Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud, who once again teamed up for the event. The duo also caught attention by wearing matching Meta glasses during play, giving fans a unique point-of-view perspective of the action on court.
Jessica Pegula and Tommy Paul brought a competitive edge to the exhibition as well. Pegula showed her determination by disputing a hindrance call during a point after chasing a forehand near the players’ bench.
The event also saw late changes to the lineup. Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev were originally scheduled to participate but withdrew due to travel complications linked to airspace closures in the Middle East.
Their absence opened the door for new pairings. Alexander Bublik stepped in to partner Mirra Andreeva, while rising American Learner Tien replaced Rublev and teamed up with Amanda Anisimova. Tien and Anisimova impressed throughout the event and advanced to the final.
Other teams included Ben Shelton with Emma Navarro, Felix Auger-Aliassime alongside Leylah Fernandez, and Matteo Berrettini partnering Jasmine Paolini.
Beyond the on-court entertainment, the Eisenhower Cup also carries a charitable purpose. All proceeds from the event go toward local charities, allowing the exhibition to support the surrounding community while delivering a memorable night of tennis for fans.
Fritz and Rybakina’s title defense therefore marked not only a successful start to the week in Indian Wells but also contributed to the tournament’s broader impact beyond the court.
